MEDIA ADVISORY: General Assembly to celebrate International Women’s Day

STATE HOUSE — Putting a spotlight on the smart, driven women of Rhode Island, Sen. Donna M. Nesselbush (D-Dist. 15, Pawtucket, North Providence) and Rep. Joy Hearn (D-Dist. 66, Barrington, East Providence) are proudly hosting a state celebration of the United Nations-recognized International Women’s Day.

This year, the General Assembly will honor the highest ranking or most senior female firefighter in each local fire department as well as Col. Ann Assumpico, Rhode Island’s first female superintendent of the State Police.

The event will take place on Wednesday, March 8, from 3 to 4 p.m. in the State Room on the second floor of the State House.

A police honor guard will escort several women in elective office into the chamber for a speaking program on women’s issues. Following the ceremony in the State Room, the honorees are invited to the Senate floor for the reading of a Senate resolution in honor of International Women’s Day and then to the House of Representatives for the same.

International Women’s Day is a day to reflect on the achievements of women and the fight for gender equality. It is also a day for acknowledging the strides the world has taken in advancing women’s rights, freedoms and protections. The United Nations has recognized and celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8 since 1975.